Employers celebrated for support of emergency services

A host of Western Australian employers have been recognised for their generous support of emergency services volunteers.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services Volunteer Employer Recognition Awards (VERA) acknowledge businesses that go above and beyond to provide flexible working arrangements, enabling their staff to respond to emergencies during work hours.

A total of 58 businesses, organisations, and self-employed volunteers from across the State were celebrated at the 2022 VERA ceremony.

Three nominees - the City of Gosnells, Central Park Tower and Office National Broome - received distinctions for their outstanding support, which are awarded to businesses and organisations receiving their fifth VERA.

The City of Gosnells was honoured for continually backing five employees who regularly attend emergencies, not only in their local government area but across the State.

The property management team at Central Park Tower received a distinction for its continued support of volunteer bush fire brigades. For 14 years, Central Park Tower has provided staff with flexible working arrangements, paid leave to attend incidents, and donations of office furniture and equipment. 

Office National Broome was recognised for its support of its volunteers for the past 15 years, which includes providing a company vehicle to enable them to respond promptly to incidents and allowing them time off from work to attend training.

A second ceremony will be held in Albany later this month for Great Southern-based VERA recipients.

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:

"Congratulations to the 56 Western Australian businesses and organisations recognised for their invaluable support of emergency service volunteers.

"I'd also like to acknowledge the two self-employed volunteers who received VERAs for sacrificing day-to-day business needs to keep their communities safe.

"Every year more than 26,000 emergency services personnel volunteer their time across the State and many of them couldn't do this without the support of their employers.

"On behalf of the McGowan Government, congratulations and thank you for your support that helps keep the WA community safe."

2022 VERA Recipients